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Reds snap up Adam Thomson

The Reds have completed the signing of World Cup-winning All Blacks flank Adam Thomson, who will join them for Super Rugby 2015.

The Reds have completed the signing of World Cup-winning All Blacks flanker Adam Thomson, who will join the franchise for Super Rugby 2015.

Thomson made his Test debut in 2008 and earned 29 caps, including two in the 2011 Rugby World Cup. He has scored six tries for his country.

He made his Super Rugby debut in 2006 for the Highlanders and went on to play 68 games for the franchise, scoring 21 tries in their back-row.

Thomson has played in Japan for the last two seasons after making the move to Japanese Top League side Canon Eagles in 2013, following seven seasons of Super Rugby. His strong form has continued in Japan, where he has been one of his club’s best players and is currently the league-leading try scorer in the 2014/15 season.

At 196cm and 112kg and capable of playing all three back-row positions, Thomson will add further experience and class to the Reds’ squad.

“It was evident Adam is still genuinely craving the competitive nature of Super Rugby,” said Reds coach Richard Graham.

“As an All Black and World Cup winner, his influence on the Super Rugby competition has been enormous. He was at the heart of everything the Highlanders did. His signing is another indication of the quality of player and person we want to bring to the Reds.

“Adam rounds out a highly competitive back-row and he brings an outstanding skill set to the way that we want to play the game. Along with Jake (Schatz) I believe Adam is one of the best aerial forwards in the modern game.

“Whilst Adam will have a role as mentor to some of the younger players, his priority is to be the best player he can. He understands the greatest influence he can have on the group is through his performances and I can assure you he is excited by that challenge.”